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An online journal about visual art, the urban landscape and design. Mary Louise Schumacher, the Journal Sentinel's art and architecture critic, leads the discussion and a community of writers contribute to the dialogue.

Artists to hold 'sing in' in solidarity with detained Ai Weiwei today

Local artist Peggy Hong has invited a few hundred local artists to join two local performing groups for a "sing in" in solidarity with detained Chinese artist Ai Weiwei today.

The event will be at the Milwaukee Art Museum where an exhibit of Chinese art, "The Emperor's Private Paradise" is open to museum members today and to the public starting Saturday.

Linking to a recent story about local art advocate and former gallery owner Mike Brenner shaving his head in solidarity with Ai, Hong's e-mail and social media invitations ask others to join the chorus outside MAM.

The major show from China, featuring art objects from the private oasis of an 18th-century emperor, was organized in direct cooperation with China, which has recently opened the doors of cultural exchange related to its cultural past while also jailing contemporary artists, bloggers and activists.

The opening of the exhibit has stimulated international discussion in the art world. Some have criticized MAM for not speaking up on the subject.

Hongs invitations ask, "What can artists do in the face of censorship and detention?" Peace Banshees, a women's acapella ensemble, described as a group that's "singing for democracy and peace since 2004," and Blessing Next to the Wound, a new social justice vocal improvisation ensemble, will perform.

The invitation is extended to anyone who wants to attend. The gathering is scheduled to take place from 4 to 5 p.m.

So far, a handful of artists are committed to attend, Hong says. A review of the MAM show is scheduled to appear in Saturday's Journal Sentinel. Look also for coverage of today's event at Art City.

Image: Steve Somers whipped up a portrait of Ai Weiwei the morning of Brenner's haircut action.

About Mary Louise Schumacher

Mary Louise Schumacher is the Journal Sentinel's art and architecture critic. She writes about culture, design, the urban landscape and Milwaukee's creative community. Art City is her award-winning cultural page and a community of more than 20 contributing writers and artists.

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